A civic reception was held at Aberdeen’s Town House last night to mark the 100th anniversary of the death of social activist and Unitarian Minister, the Reverend Alexander Webster.
Born in Oldmeldrum, Reverend Webster was a minister for 36 years, spending more than half his career in Aberdeen.
He was a member of the Aberdeen Labour Committee and served as vice-president of the Scottish Labour Party during Keir Hardie’s leadership.
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Rev Webster was also involved in the Land Restoration League and the Aberdeen Clarion Club, a group which raised a raft of important issues such as workers’ rights.
He was well known for his open air services which were held on the city’s Broad Hill and attracted hundreds of people for each event.
He also instigated Fresh Air Fortnight which led to more than 8,000 children leaving the city over a 20 year period to enjoy a healthy holiday in the good, clean air of Aberdeenshire.
Fresh Air Fortnight latterly led to the establishment of the present Linn Moor School which is now a residential centre for children with autism and other disabilities.
Reverend Caroline Cormack, of Aberdeen Unitarians, said: “Reverend Webster was an incredibly dedicated and conscientious man who extended his ministry way beyond the confines of his church and into the community.
“He saw the need for change in Scotland and was not afraid to stand up for the reforms that were required.
“Whilst he may have died 100 years ago, there is still so much we can learn from how he behaved and all that he achieved.”
More than 50 people attended the civic reception, including the Lord Provost of Aberdeen, Councillor Barney Crockett, and descendants of Alexander Webster.
